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Wheeling University

Wheeling, WV

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Luceat Lux Vestra (Latin)(Let your light shine)

1954
Founded
Private university
Type
567
Total Students
619
Undergrad
155
Graduate
$29K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
75%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Graduation Rate
6-year
66%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Dianna Vargo

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Wheeling University

Wheeling University: A legacy of learning, evolving to meet future challenges.

Wheeling University, a private institution founded in 1954, cultivates a close-knit community for its 774 students under the leadership of President Dianna Vargo. Guided by the inspiring motto "Luceat Lux Vestra" (Let your light shine), the university is dedicated to fostering intellectual growth and personal development within a supportive academic environment. Its rich history reflects a journey of continuous adaptation and unwavering commitment to higher education.

The university's origins trace back to the 19th-century vision of Bishop Richard Whelan, which came to fruition through a partnership between the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston and the Society of Jesus. Wheeling College broke ground in 1953 and officially opened its doors to students in 1955. Over the decades, the institution expanded its academic offerings and evolved, becoming Wheeling Jesuit College in the late 1980s and subsequently Wheeling Jesuit University in 1996, marking its growth and expanding scope.

While its formal academic affiliation with the Society of Jesus concluded in 2019, leading to its current identity as Wheeling University, the institution remains steadfast in its mission to provide a robust and engaging educational experience. This recent evolution underscores its resilience and dedication to offering relevant, impactful programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful lives. Prospective students will find a nurturing environment where individual talents are cultivated, and futures are shaped through a commitment to learning.

Key Highlights

  • Private university founded in 1954.
  • Current student body of 774.
  • Motto: "Luceat Lux Vestra" (Let your light shine).
  • Evolved from Wheeling College to university status.
  • Established through a partnership with the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston.

Timeline

1953
Ground broken for Wheeling College
1954
Wheeling College officially incorporated
1955
Wheeling College opened to students
1987
Became Wheeling Jesuit College (for 1987–1988 school year)
1996
Gained university status as Wheeling Jesuit University
2015
Settled with the federal government over NASA grant money
2019
Eliminated several majors and cut faculty members
2019
Society of Jesus ended academic affiliation
2019
Formally dropped "Jesuit" from its name to become Wheeling University
🏛️
72 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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